While the trash pump is similar in design to the standard pump, there are two main differences between them. The passages in the trash pumps volute are larger in comparison with in standard pumps volute. This variation in design permits trash pumps to move water mixed with relatively large amounts of solids (measuring up to 30mm in diameter).

This ability to handle solids in turn, makes the trash pumps ideal for heavy duty dewatering purposes at construction sites, cofferdams, mining sites and storm drains. Second, trash pumps differ from standard pumps in the cover on most trash pumps can be easily removed to allow for inspecting of the pumps inner parts and to simplify maintenance.